Abstract
Collaboration for this project was determined before the start of the project with the program advisor. Both project participants collaborated across all levels of the project, including researching the perspectives on disabilities and current practice in ability awareness programs, determining best practices in implementing an ability awareness program and developing the specific curriculum. Individuals with disabilities continue to experience segregation and feelings of inadequacy in our society. Research has shown that perspectives on disabilities are developed through media, education and community, but such resources may maintain ideas of ableism and the need to overcome the hardships that burden individuals with disabilities. Current practices in inclusive education, though encouraging awareness, may fall short of persuading acceptance of and belonging for students with disabilities. Research has pointed out the need for educators to have access to ability awareness. There is limited material designed to assist teachers to promote acceptance of individual differences on a continuous basis and across varying abilities. This project presents a curriculum that, through interactive experiences, encourages awareness of individual differences and promotes acceptance and inclusive education of students with disabilities. This curriculum was designed as a supplement to California state standards and incorporates discussion-based lesson plans allowing for self-reflection and concentration in the areas of diversity framework, communication, academics, gross and fine motor skills, social/emotional/behavioral, adaptive/daily living skills, vocational and health.